Irish Water Spaniel Breed Guide
Also known as: IWS, Rat Tail Spaniel
Clowns of the spaniel family, Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent water dogs whose curly coats and humorous personalities entertain sporting enthusiasts.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Large
Weight
20-31 kg
Lifespan
10-13 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Large
Weight
20-31 kg
Lifespan
10-13 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Irish Water Spaniels
Developed in Ireland during the 19th century, the Irish Water Spaniel was bred as a water retriever for hunting waterfowl in challenging conditions. Their distinctive curly coat and rat-like tail made them excellent swimmers and retrievers in cold Irish waters.
Their dense, curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every few months. Irish Water Spaniels are intelligent and independent, known for their strong swimming ability and playful nature.
They are devoted to their families but can be reserved with strangers. Irish Water Spaniels need substantial daily exercise and excel at water activities. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Irish Water Spaniels
Expert advice on keeping your Irish Water Spaniel healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Supporting the energetic lifestyle of an Irish Water Spaniel requires careful attention to their nutritional needs. These athletic dogs thrive on a well-balanced diet that provides substantial energy for their active pursuits. High-quality protein sources should comprise approximately 25-30% of their diet to maintain muscle mass and support their natural endurance.
Portion control plays a vital role in maintaining optimal health, as these dogs can easily gain excess weight if overfed. Regular monitoring of body condition and adjusting meal sizes accordingly helps prevent obesity, which could impact their natural agility and stamina. Fresh, clean water should always be readily available, particularly after exercise or swimming sessions.
As Irish Water Spaniels progress through different life stages, their nutritional requirements evolve. Puppies need nutrient-dense food to support growth, while adult dogs require balanced maintenance diets. Senior dogs may benefit from reduced calorie intake while maintaining adequate protein levels to preserve muscle mass. Working with a veterinarian to establish appropriate portion sizes and meal frequency ensures optimal nutrition throughout their lifespan.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Irish Water Spaniels from our community of pet parents
Irish Water Spaniels are known for their playful, intelligent, and energetic nature. They are typically very affectionate with their families and can be quite protective. They're also known for their 'clownish' behaviour, providing endless entertainment with their antics. However, they can be somewhat reserved with strangers, so early socialisation is crucial.
Dog Breeds Similar to Irish Water Spaniel
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